Friday, May 20, 2011

Police Blotter Explained

A police blotter is a written record of daily arrests in your area. Although you may be familiar with the blotter format, some of the terminology can be confusing. Georgia’s Criminal Code is defined in O.C.G.A. §§ 17-1-1 – 17-18-2. http://www.lexisnexis.com/hottopics/gacode/. A brief explanation of common charges is listed below:

·Criminal Trespass : intentionally damaging the property of another in the amount of $500 or less; or entering the property of another for an unlawful purpose or without their authorization

·Theft: taking property from another without their consent

oby Taking: unlawfully taking the property of another

oby Deception: obtaining the property of another by misleading

oby Shoplifting: taking merchandise from a retail establishment

oby Receiving: receiving another person’s property when you know it was obtained in a criminal matter

·Robbery: intent to commit theft in the presence of another by use of force, intimidation, or sudden snatching

·Possess Controlled Substance: having a Schedule I or Schedule II controlled substance

·Disorderly Conduct: acting in a violent manner toward another person that leaves them in reasonable fear of their safety or their property; using fighting words; or using obscene and vulgar or profane language around a child under 14 years old

·Arson: malicious burning of someone’s house

The Walton County Sheriff’s office also has an informational website with suspect surveillance videos. If you recognize any of the people in the videos the Sheriff’s Office asks that you send them information through their website. http://www.waltonsheriff.com/crimetube.htm.

If you or someone you know has either been harmed or charged with any of the crimes above, contact our office to see how we can assist you. Christine@Bechtold-Law.com